What is the matter with the black and purple gums

Teeth can easily develop problems due to sudden changes in temperature or irritation from hard foods. Compared to hard teeth, gums are much softer, so they are naturally more likely to be damaged and have more problems. When a certain part of the body turns black or purple, it may be a sign of a serious problem. The same goes for gums. Once the gums turn black or purple, the problems they indicate should not be underestimated. So what exactly is going on when gums turn black and purple?

reason:

1. This condition may be caused by periodontitis, or it may be that metal salts are absorbed into the body through the blood circulation, which can form band-shaped or linear light gray or blue-black pigment deposits on the edge of the gums, which are called lead lines or mercury lines.

2. There are many factors that can cause gums to turn darker, such as smoking, dentures, pregnancy, endocrine disorders, and vitamin deficiency.

3. Some people find that their gums are black, unlike other people's gums which are pink, and they worry whether they have some disease. The substances that cause the color change of gums or oral mucosa have two sources. One part comes from the body itself, called endogenous substances, mainly melanin and various pigments from hemoglobin, and the other part comes from outside the body, called exogenous substances, mainly heavy metals, dyes, plant pigments and medicinal properties.

Suggestions:

Clinically, gingival tissue is divided into three parts: free gingiva, attached gingiva and gingival papilla. The attached gingiva of normal people is pink, but in a few normal people, diffuse cloud-like melanin deposition can be seen on the surface of the attached gingiva, especially in dark-skinned people and black people. This pigmentation has no pathological significance and does not require treatment.

In addition, some exogenous pigment substances, such as heavy metal salts (lead, mercury), are absorbed into the body through blood circulation, and can form band-shaped or linear light gray or blue-black pigment deposits on the edge of the gums, which are called lead lines and mercury lines. In addition, long-term heavy smokers will also have pigment deposits caused by tobacco on the surface of the gums. Some drugs can also cause changes in the color of oral mucosa and teeth.

It should be emphasized that if the pigmented areas on the gums or upper palate become rough, raised, bleed easily or develop lumps, you should seek medical attention promptly.